President Hassan Rouhani said full implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, as the nuclear deal reached between Iran and major world powers last July is formally called, would take relations between Iran and the European Union to high point.
In a meeting with Greece Foreign Minister Nikos Kotzias on Sunday, Rouhani said the negative effects of sanctions against Iran on mutual relations will be canceled under the nuclear deal that clears the path for broader ties, IRNA reported.
Rouhani described Tehran-Athens relations as "friendly" and "respectful", saying there are huge potentials that can be used to cultivate mutual ties.
Kotzias said wide-ranging relations with Iran in political, economic, cultural and social fields are of top importance for Greece.
The Greek minister said he has extensive plans for economic and commercial cooperation, which will be discussed in meetings with Iranian officials during his two-day trip.
Kotzias stressed that in addition to economic cooperation, Greece has a strong desire for increased interaction in other fields too.
He also called for establishing a direct air flight between Tehran and Athens to increase contacts. Kotzias announced that Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras will visit Iran soon.
Meeting With Zarif
In a separate meeting, Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif held talks with Kotzias on Sunday.
Zarif said Iran and Greece have good opportunities to expand economic ties in various fields, including banking, oil, industrial, roads and urban development.
"Energy cooperation, which was stopped due to sanctions, will be resumed quickly," he said. The minister of industries, minister of foreign trade and a delegation of heads of major Greek companies also accompanied Kotzias during his trip to Iran.
Zarif also touched upon the nuclear deal and said Iran expects P5+1 (the US, Britain, France, China and Russia plus Germany) to fulfill their commitments and close Iran's nuclear dossier.
"This will provide a solid basis for strengthening cooperation in future, paving the way for cooperation against extremism, terrorism and violence in the Middle East," he said.
Zarif said Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency have implemented a roadmap to solve all issues regarding Iran's past nuclear program and the agency has approved Iran's cooperation.
"Iran is waiting for the IAEA's report to be issued and the IAEA's board of governors to close the case," he said.
